Cape Town – Geordin Hill-Lewis, 39, has been elected as the new federal leader of South Africa’s second-largest party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), positioning it for the 2029 national elections and a stronger challenge to the ANC.
His election marks a reset for the centre-right party, which entered a coalition government in 2024 after the ANC lost its majority.
Speaking after his election in Johannesburg on Sunday, Hill-Lewis said the DA’s goal is to lead government, not remain a junior partner.
“I am not satisfied being a junior partner in a coalition government,” he said.
💙 Geordin Hill-Lewis is committed to getting South Africa working!
“Our ambition must be to lead the national government. That is the next chapter in our party’s proud history.” – DA Federal Leader
Watch the full acceptance speech here: https://t.co/fo48mWcsaJ#DAcongress2026 pic.twitter.com/NOpZ9nGAR2
— Democratic Alliance Gauteng Legislature (@DA_GPL) April 13, 2026
“Our ambition must be to lead the national government. That is the next chapter that all of us must write together.”
In the same interview, he also confirmed he would consider a future presidential bid without hesitation.
“Definitely!,” he responded at the time.
“I am passionate about politics. Because it gives us the best opportunity and leverage to do something positive for our country and society. To try and build a country we all know and believe is possible.
Over the weekend, Hill-Lewis emphasised priorities such as tackling crime, restoring confidence in the justice system, and growing the DA into the country’s largest party.
He also continues to focus on governance initiatives, including plans for a municipal policing degree to strengthen urban safety.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
